WILLIAMSBURG— The Virginia Volkssport Association (VVA) invites adults, children and seniors to participate in a five-day walking festival March 19–22 based in Williamsburg and the surrounding area.
The events celebrate the 50th anniversary of AVA: America’s Walking Club, one of the nation’s most historic walking organizations, of which VVA is a member. The festival will also commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States and highlight the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail.
AVA: America’s Walking Club is a nationwide nonprofit organization that promotes health and wellness through organized walking events designed to encourage lifelong fun, fitness and friendship for people of all ages and abilities. The walks are noncompetitive, allowing participants to move at their own pace and enjoy the scenery.
To mark its 50th anniversary in 2026, the organization has planned 17 signature events across the country. Williamsburg will host the third national event, and community members are welcome to participate for one day or throughout the festival.
The first event will take place Thursday, March 19, in Fredericksburg, Virginia, showcasing the area’s Revolutionary and Civil War history. Walkers can choose a 5K or 10K route. The walk will begin at the Fredericksburg Visitor Center, 601 Caroline St. Participants must register between 8:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. before receiving directions and a map for the route. A member-led group walk for the 5K route will begin at 10 a.m. Street parking and a nearby parking garage are available.
On Friday, March 20, participants will walk through the historic streets of Colonial Williamsburg, passing the Capitol at Colonial Williamsburg and the Governor’s Palace. The 10K route will also travel through the campus of William & Mary, the nation’s second-oldest college. The walk will begin at the Best Western Historic Area. Registration costs $4 and will be available from 8 to 11 a.m., when participants will receive route maps.
On Saturday, March 21, walkers will visit two Civil War redoubts from the Battle of Williamsburg, which were used to prevent Union forces from advancing toward Richmond. The 5K route will follow city streets and a boardwalk, while the 10K route will travel along a more rugged trail with hills. The walk will begin at the Best Western Historic Area between 8 and 11 a.m.
The final walk will take place Sunday, March 22, and will highlight the New Town area, known for its shops and restaurants. The walk will start at Planet Fitness Williamsburg between 8 and 11 a.m.
“We are very excited to celebrate our 50th anniversary in such a historic area as Williamsburg, Virginia,” said Henry Rosales, president and CEO of AVA: America’s Walking Club. “Walkers from several states will travel to Virginia to participate in these historic walks. We hope the local community will join us to learn about our walking events in Virginia and across the country. Acting on our health today paves the way for a brighter, healthier tomorrow.”